Shoreline access, open space, a dog park and kayak launch on property bordering the Spokane River are among the public-focused concepts that will be discussed during a public forum Friday.

During a joint workshop between the Coeur d’Alene City Council and Parks and Recreation Commission, the city’s consultant will share the latest plans for former Atlas mill site situated on 47 acres west of the Riverstone development.

The meeting starts at noon in the Community Room of the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, and the public is invited to attend.

“It’s an opportunity for the council to hear firsthand from the commission what they like about the plan,” said Coeur d’Alene Parks and Recreation director Bill Greenwood.

Greenwood said public participation in the planning process for the former mill site, purchased by the city in 2017 for $7.85 million, is key to how development occurs.

“It’s a critical aspect that’s driving the design,” Greenwood said.

During a public forum last month, consultant Phil Boyd of Welch Comer Engineers provided the Parks and Recreation Commission with conceptual plans for the riverfront property.

Boyd outlined two areas of public improvements along the waterfront corridor:

- “Clean and green” improvements expected to cost $3.5 million and consisting of sloping vegetated banks leading to the river, trails, erosion control measures, irrigation, shoreline stabilization and limited turf and landscaping.

- Other potential improvements, totaling $2.8 million, include a water accessible dog park, additional pedestrian access to the water, picnic shelter, vendor building, kayak launch, rustic playground, food truck area and parking for 65 vehicles.

Public improvement to the property, which will potentially tap funds from the city’s urban renewal agency, ignite cda, will begin later this year.

Meantime, the city has scheduled additional meetings to discuss development options as plans move forward:

- March 18: 5:30 p.m. Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council will be presented with a priority list for public input.

- March 28: Noon. City Council and ignite cda will hold a workshop to discuss funding opportunities and council priorities.

- May 7: City Council will review the public space design, budget and alternatives.

- May 15: Ignite cda will review public space design and budget.

- July 7: City Council to award a contract for the project.

The latest conceptual designs for the site can be viewed by visiting cdaid.org and clicking “Atlas Waterfront Presentations” under the Latest News section.